1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Mazda 6
To start off, 2012 Mazda 6 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 170 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 6 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1971 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 6, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1971 BMW 3 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 6. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 6. 2012 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2012 Mazda 6 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 3 | 6 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 226 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1510 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4755 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1795 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2789 mm |